Everyone knows it is that time of year. Nothing puts a damper on the most wonderful time of year like a cold or the flu.

While maintaining good health throughout the year is certainly a goal, a little extra precaution during late fall and early winter, also known as the height of holiday season, never hurts. Here are five ways to go natural during cold and flu season:

1) Apple cider vinegarIt tastes disgusting. There is no way around that, but a teaspoon to a tablespoon helps cleanse the system. However, the extreme acidity of apple cider vinegar may result in erosion of tooth enamel. The University of Chicago Medical Center suggests drinking water after consuming apple cider vinegar to help prevent harming the teeth.

2) Essential oil diffuserInvesting in an essential oil diffuser, large or small, allows your body to receive the benefits of various oils without having to put them directly on the skin. Some oils may cause skin irritation through direct skin contact, due to the concentration of the oil in its undiluted form.

A diffuser typically ranges from $10 and up, and can be purchased just about anywhere—from drug to department stores. Fill water a little below the “max” fill line. Place roughly seven drops of the oil into the diffuser, and enjoy the benefits.

3) Peppermint oilPeppermint oil helps alleviate nasal congestion, headache, nausea, common cold and cough. While the price of the oil will vary based on the brand, an ounce can cost between $5-10. Depending on how often you utilize the oil, it may last you throughout the season. Depending on your skin sensitivity, placing a tiny amount (emphasis on tiny) of peppermint oil on your temples can help with headaches. Gently massage into your temples for relief.

4) Tea tree oilTea tree oil has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties. It has long been regarded as one of the most efficient ways to naturally boost the immune system.

An ounce may cost between $5-10, depending on the brand.

5) Pine oilPine oil aids in clearing the sinuses, and no one likes showing up for Thanksgiving dinner with wad of tissues permanently strapped to his or her side. There’s nothing quite as unpleasant as saying please pass the gravy between sneezing. However, if that does happen to be you on Thursday, we sincerely hope you feel better.